Cushion Cut Loose Diamonds

Cushion Cut Loose Diamonds get their name from their pillow-like shape. It can be a square, or a rectangle, but with curved corners. The loose diamond usually has 58 facets, so it falls under the "brilliant" rather than the "step cut" category. Because of this, it can create an amazing amount of shine, though not as much as square princess cut loose diamonds.

Cushion Cut Loose Diamonds History

The Cushion cut loose diamond is one of the oldest loose diamond shapes. Developed centuries ago, when tools were simple and difficult to wield, it had a reputation for being a little thick and lumpy, and had a rather dull cast because it did not adequately reflect light. But this was before laser technology enabled craftsman to make very precise and accurate lines. Today, cushion loose diamonds can hold their own among the other loose diamond brilliant cuts, though its glow tends to be softer and subtle.
The reason for this is that the cushion cut was meant to be at its most beautiful when viewed under candlelight (in fact, it was sometimes called the candlelight diamond).

Cushion Cut Loose Diamond Benefits

The subtle shine of a cushion cut loose diamond makes it an ideal cut for women who prefer to keep their jewelry simple, perhaps so they can wear it every day. In fact, this loose diamond shape is often used in earring studs and solitaire diamond pendants, which can be used as part of one's daily set of accessories.
Cushion loose diamonds have also been enjoying a resurgence of popularity in the last few years, due to the interest in vintage jewelry. Not everyone can own a piece of heirloom jewelry dating back to the last few centuries, but it is easy to purchase loose diamonds and have them set to resemble the very beautiful (and very expensive!) antique rings that celebrities have been sporting to their big gala nights and movie premieres.

The Craftsmanship of the Cushion Cut Loose Diamonds

Unlike the princess cut loose diamonds or the emerald cut loose diamonds, jewelers do not follow a specific set of proportions for the cushion cut. The artisan has a greater degree of creative freedom, but his influence and control over the cutting process makes it more important to choose a cutter with great skill and experience. While some may slice the diamond just to preserve the carat, a master will be able to balance the weight with the need for maximizing light and radiance.
The best way to gauge the real beauty of any loose diamond regardless of its shape is to view it in natural daylight. The lighting in jewelry stores is specially designed to emphasize a loose diamond's brilliance. Look at it closely, and see if the stone is able to emanate a very beautiful and feminine shine, or looks as clunky and dull as its predecessors.
It's also important to start with a high quality loose diamond. You need at least a grading of Very Good or Good cut, and clarity of SI1. Though the shape is a matter of preference, it is ideal to stay within the ratio of 1 to 25 or 1 to 30. Color should at least have an "I" rating.

From : http://www.awdiamonds.com/loose-diamonds-cushion.asp